In the midst of new rumors linking the defender to Manchester United and Manchester City, Jarrad Branthwaite claims that going on loan to PSV was the “best thing” for his Everton career.
The 21-year-old, who had previously played for Blackburn Rovers, turned down offers from Championship clubs to sign with Eredivisie powerhouses PSV for the entirety of the 2022–23 season.
Branthwaite has become an Everton fixture after starting five of their seven Premier League games thus far, but his performances have led Manchester United and City to consider him as a target.
Discussing his previous decision to depart Goodison Park on a temporary basis, Branthwaite told Everton’s official website [4 October]: “Looking back, it was the best thing I could have done.
“I saw a few young English players go abroad, get regular game time and do well.
“I’ve grown as a person; I’m more confident on and off the field. Moving to a different country, living on your own, you’ve got to learn new things, a new language and adapt to life.
“It was a difficult start when I went over, but I think it’s set me in good stead for coming back here as a better person and a bigger character than before I left.”
Unwanted speculation
There is no doubt that Branthwaite has become a better player as a result of his spell on loan at Philips Stadion. Still aged just 21, he is already a regular starter for Everton in the Premier League after usurping Michael Keane in the side.
That could remain the case for years to come, although the reported interest from elsewhere is a cause for concern. After all, it can be very tough for young players to say no to the likes of United and City.
The good news is that there has also recently been talk of a new deal possibly being agreed to keep him in place at Goodison Park – and the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock beyond that.
Everton’s well-publicised financial problems, though, coupled with the fact they are once again likely to be embroiled in a relegation scrap, means Branthwaite may well think twice before committing.
However, one thing is for certain – he will not be loaned out from Goodison for a third time in the search for first-team football.
